Marius Borg Hoiby, the 29-year-old son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, became emotional in court on Wednesday as he denied accusations that videos found on his phone depicted acts of rape. Hoiby is charged with raping four women between 2018 and 2024 and faces more than 30 additional criminal charges, including assault, threats, drug offences and driving violations.
Taking the stand on the second day of his trial, Hoiby admitted to a life marked by excess, substance abuse and a desire for recognition driven by growing up under intense public scrutiny. He told the court that media attention from an early age pushed him toward alcohol, drugs and promiscuity, but firmly denied drugging or sexually assaulting anyone.
One alleged victim testified earlier that she believed she had been drugged at a party at Hoiby’s parents’ home and later discovered videos allegedly showing her unconscious during the assault. Hoiby has pleaded not guilty to rape and domestic violence charges while admitting to some lesser offences.
The trial is being conducted under strict reporting restrictions to protect the identities of the alleged victims. Though not a member of the royal family, Hoiby grew up in the royal household, placing the case under intense public and media scrutiny.
